@@Jesusprayerwarriorbw It is weird to see how many cars have no hight adjustment especially cars that are more typical women cars are set for the standard 5,7" male and can't be changed.
You're an MVP, doing this to your own video. Cheers from Canada, your first cousins in the north. I have the same opinion of this car, wish i loved it but alas.
Bought one two weeks ago. BIG shout out to its bluetooth system. When you're on a phone call, the call audio comes out from behind the driver's head making it incredibly easy to hear a conversation going 70mph with the top down on the highway. Each person I talked to couldn't believe I was driving a convertible down the highway because the microphone quality on this MX-5 was so awesome!
Some of the smaller issues mentioned can be solved by purchasing a trim level above. The seats get an upgrade, sound system packs more punch as well and you get parking sensors. But basically it's good to see someone reviewing this car in a more "sane" version as the MX5 is all about thrills per buck. Usually reviewers get the biggest spec there is to review which might not be that entirely realistic with what buyers often are purchasing. Though I got to admit, I have a full option ND1.
CarExpert I’m sorry but that is not an excuse, and the issue is more important than the op makes it out to be: it basically makes your review useless. You say things with certain authority which are clearly false, and pertain only to the trim level you are reviewing (the keyless entry bit being a case in point). It’s not at all good to see this review, as it paints a bad picture, making the review not only useless in that regard, but actually counterproductive. Thankfully, it can easily be fixed by putting some titles over the video to clarify the point.
😅 It’s a review of the base model. That’s the point of a review, so you know what you don’t get and so you can make an informed decision on what to buy.
CarExpert oh please. You don’t point out it’s the base model: you just pronounce inaccuracies as if they are truths. I’m not one of your fanboys, so i can see what happened. Unless fixed, this is nothing like an “honest” review. Ridiculous.
“Oh the key doesn’t work as a proximity sensor to enter the car...” uhm, except it does. Just your trim level doesn’t have the option. Entirely different!
I'm biased, since I've owned my MX-5 since 1994. I bought it new, and drove it last night. I've driven every generation at least once, and the latest is by far the best. Handling, power delivery, interior quality have all been brought to the top of the scale with the newest car. At the same time, Mazda haven't abandoned the formula in pursuit of unnecessary creature comforts, larger size or huge amounts of power. It was a sublime design the day it came on the market in 1989, and it's only better in every way in the newest iteration. Driving my car back-to-back with the new one really reveals the progress, although I still am happy to own my car because it amounts to 85% of the new car -- and the core values are still intact. This bodes very well for the expected service longevity any owner of the new car can expect. Well done with the review!
@@CarExpertAus the only disagreement I had with you on your video was the roof. While I like the concept of the RF retractable roof, I've found the manual roof a no-brainer to use over all these years. It's literally a one-hand-at-the-stoplight deal, and I think the look of the car suffers a bit with all that extra tin and superstructure of the RF. As for upgrades, are you asking if I'd upgrade to the new car, over my 1993? Personally at this point, no, since I've done some mild mods to my '93 (Flyin' Miata suspension being the biggest one) and I've spent hundreds of hours just keeping the car clean and in top shape. The new car would be wonderful, but probably not enough of a step up from the '93 for me. But I'm also a bit attached emotionally -- it was the first thing my wife and I purchased together all those years ago, and we even drove it from our wedding reception. 26 years and five kids later, somehow we still own it, and it's better than ever! But if I didn't own the '93, I'd seriously consider a new MX-5 -- it's a completely better car in every regard. Maybe I need to own both, eh?
Seriously, right? Wonderful cars. I don't think it's hyperbole to say they're among the most successful designs in history, all things considered. They just hit all the right notes, and smacked all their design goals out of the park. I still enjoy driving mine immensely.
I drove the soft top and the hard top version and ended up buying the soft top. Hard top has very limited over the shoulder vision and as far as the non electric top function, it is about 3 seconds to fully open or close the top manually with ergonomically placed latches and handles that make it quite simple and convenient. He mentions the wait time and "don't try this at a traffic light" but I like that if it starts to rain, I can generally have the top up practically before the second raindrop hits. My 2021 replaces my VERY well driven 1999 and I couldn't be happier!
Paul and Igor and team, you guys are killing it! You're very quickly climbing to be one of the best and most enjoyable auto journalism sources in Australia. Keep it up!
I have a 2017 MX5 RF GT with exclusive package. It is the most fun to drive. Exceptional manual gear box, very well balanced ride - amazing how such a light and sporty car can handle so well as well as not crash over bumps. Truly a masterpiece from the engineers at Mazda
Great review Paul and team. I enjoyed a test drive in this very car (ECA 851) a couple of weeks ago. So impressed that I’ve offloaded my 550 hp HSV and ordered an RF GT. It might take a while to get here, but so be it. I totally get the MX 5 philosophy. What an engaging drive this thing really is. Anyone who still thinks these cars are underpowered really doesn’t understand why this car exists.
I have an NB1. The steering is a major plus, it is the best steering I have had in 56 years of driving. Your left elbow issue on turning left ? .... it is your steering technique, don't blame the internal design. I have no problem. Try the push/pull technique of steering ... it gives you much better control because your hands remain close to the horizontal instead of rotating around all over the place.
CarExpert I thought it was cool until I realized it was completely pointless. Everyone knows what hard feels like and nobody has a reference to your scale.
@@rocketkinger2506 Not quite! Hard and soft are at two extreme ends of the scale. Before long we'll have a table that allows you to reference one car against another. It's a handy tool to have and it calls out cheap interiors.
The Mazda MX-5 range kicks off from AUD$35,890 (US$25,000) plus on-road costs for the entry-level MX-5 manual. The range caps out at AUD$49,900 (US$33,500) plus on-roads for the top-specification MX-5 RF GT with an automatic gearbox. This car on the other hand, the MX-5 RF kicks off from AUD$41,200 (US$28,300) plus on-roads and comes standard with a 2.0-litre engine and six-speed manual transmission. Buyers can pick from six colours with all but Machine Grey and Soul Red costing an additional AUD$495 (US$340).
Hi Paul - when you drive an MX5 is when you understand what it is all about. It is a great little car and provides one of the purest driving experiences available today. Caterham and Lotus would be the others in this league - however they are much more hard core and also they cost a lot more. If you dont want the compromises of the 'hard core' then the MX5 is the best 'all round' option that you can have as your daily drive as well as enjoy the purity of driving experience.
@@CarExpertAus Malaysia. The 2020 mx5 is priced at RM 260,000, which is roughly 60,000 USD. Insane 200-300% taxes apply to all import cars. Really a sad country to live in for a car enthusiast.
Is that including "sales tax" though? They are about £24k+ in the UK and that includes VAT. You can usually haggle them down a bit too. As we drive on the left they are a straight import from Japan though, which probably keeps costs down.
I picked up a soft top Club model (not sure if the models in Australia match up with the ones here in the U.S.), and I'm loving it. Such a great driving car, and I'm really enjoying the whole top-down experience (this is my first convertible).
@@waynesimpson2074 You're half right... it's driver side only on the RF... or maybe passenger side only... but I do 100% know it's there on one side only.
Ive had my RF GT for just over 3 years now and its a great car. Personally would love a bit more power between the first and second gears but otherwise its super fun to drive. My reverse camera is better than most cars i see at this price range so not sure why you didn't like it so much. Otherwise great review and video. Look forward to seeing more
Thanks! The issue I had with the camera was when reversing at night time. The non-GT model doesn't have parking sensors, so it made it a bit tricky to park if you couldn't see through it.
Just found your channel guys, good job and nice content....hope you making more interesting reviews and bring us more scent of new models. Greetings from Greece!
Close mate had the NB MX-5, and I get it. Also good to see you feeling Mazda's "Jinba Ittai" in the steering, and very glad to hear that the manual is still excellent. He'd skipped the NC, and when the ND was launched, umm'd and aah'd between it and the Fiat 124 Spider. Issue being that the ND launched with just the smaller engine, and you had to go with the Italian to get the extra power - the lack of power being an issue you also mentioned. I'd go the soft-top (for less weight), in red with tan leather, with the 2.0L petrol engine thanks. Nice work on the sly joke with the roof too Paul.
My NC PRHT model looks like the Lotus Elan ought to have looked, and when I put the roof down it looks just like a sports car should, NO roof, but I don't have the inconvenience of the soft-top. I also have full leather seats, BOSE sound, and a GLOVEBOX!
As a "car" the NC hard top is the best of the lot, as a Miata...... well not so much. The NC is the one I would get as an auto for committing in heavy rush hour traffic. I am not a fan of the targa top Miatas as you do not get the top down visibility. They are NOT LONGER A CONVERTIBLE.
Switched out of Saab cabriolets after 20 years and went to buy an MX-5. Unfortunately I took my wife car shopping with me and we ended up with the wrong 5 - a CX-5. Now I just have to wait until the 3-5 years is up and I’m straight back to get my convertible fix. Problem is I cant find a dealer with a demo!!
Nice video, you might want to revisit the current 2021 model, it could solve a lot of your criticisms about it lacking standard features in the car your drove...now has Bose speakers in the headrests, parking sensors and more.
I did a test drive today and I'm 1m87, I barely use two hands on the steering wheel while driving so turning didn't annoy me at all but indeed the center console could be just a tad bit lower. I think I have about 4 cm distance from the roof so it did feel a bit claustrophobic. I just did a 30 min test drive with the dealer sitting next to me, think I need to try it alone for a full hour to see if I'm really sold on it or not.
Soft dashboard tops are more likely to disintegrate over time due to the heat they have to bear. You may not remember but I remember the cars of the 1970s. Sure materials are better, but sun beats dash top, always. A hard surface may well be much more durable.
In my opinion the most suitable trackday car is an mx-5, if you are wondering let me explain. When all other cars rely on engine power, the mx-5 only relies on its road holding
Well done Paul another great great Video. I like cars with the diff. In the rear it does look 👀 good, it looks like a Toyota 86 . 5 years warranty & the RF anytime for me . Mazda have a very good engine. My son got an old model ( m.X 5 ) he loves 🤍it a soft top 🤍 white in great condition. 🏁.
I have a MY2017 one for 2.5 years now, got a decent leasing rate at the time from Mazda so basically a new car at the time which sat in stock for a while. It's the 1.5L version in GT-M spec, which is adequate enough for the flat country I live in (Netherlands). I'm 1.92m and just fits, however if you're a very large person or someone with very long legs it'll be challenging. Due to it being a lease I really can't fiddle a lot with it, and I agree with the bodyroll - if it were my own I'd address it by adjusting dampers / springs. Other annoyings things are fixed by model year updates (steering wheel only adjusts vertical in mine, and the doors hinge 2 times instead of 3 now). I still got PDC at the rear instead of a camera but that is totally fine. BOSE audio system is fun with the speakers in the headrests, a nice gimmick. The hard thing will be to find a car that gives as much driving pleasure for the same price, there is really not much that comes close. Where I live cars like the Renault Megane RS or VW Golf GTI are a lot more expensive, and smaller cars like a Polo GTI or a Mini Cooper don't come close to the very good seating position you find in the Miata. If anyone has a suggestion I'd love to know :P
I'm considering one. Whereas I do prefer the manual operation of the roof (It's a lot more engaging and quicker), I'd probably buy the RF as it'll be parked outside and used in winter, neither are things that soft tops really like.
I’ve had the first generation, 2 of the 3rd generation and I have the 4th generation. The MX5 is my jam!! I am not a fan of the RF but if I lived up north I would consider the RF. The reason why I love the MX5 soft top for the experience of nothing there to block my view. In my opinion the RF is not a true convertible.
RF indeed blocks you view, detracts from the "open air" immersion, adds complexity/weight/cost. They are not as quiet as the soft top with the roof down (turbulence). Security may be the only reason to buy the RF, if you park on the street overnight. A lot of "mature" people own MX-5's, and they may not have the manual dexterity required to raise/lower the soft top (from a seated position). Fun, comfortable and sporty car in which EVERY drive feels special.
Hence the term, "retractable fastback." =) It's like the T-Tops on a Trans Am or the removable (but somewhat clumsy) top on a 914 Porsche. Anyhoo, I LOVE the shape of the RF, mine is a daily driver in the southern US so the "top" is up most muggy afternoons. Cheers!
@@ElroyMcDuff I still think the NC hard top is the way to go if you need the hard top. Anyone can drop the top from the seated position, the worse is you have to pull over to put the top up.
Love how you just flick that antenna LOL. Why do they have an antenna design from over 10 years ago. I am ok with the design in general except I think the spacing of the tail lights could have been wider and push it out a bit more cause the current looks is disproportionate. Also had Mazda also offer a higher powered engine it would certainly have been a little pocket rocket.
😅 I’d say it’s just a platform thing. The in glass antennas wouldn’t work on the soft top so it’s easier to just use the one aerial design for both variants.
@Ryuichi Tanaka Yes, but this is why Euro cars are always just that slightly more desirable because they will always make a more power variant of an already good platform, you get the choice.
Almost everyone replaces the antenna with a stubby version. They cost about US$20 and are a screw in replacement that takes about 30 seconds to change.. Maybe the OEM one is better if you live in the middle of nowhere.
I don't get the obsession journalists have with how soft dashboard plastics are. Who touches the dashboard? in over thirty years of driving the only time I can recall touching the dashboard is when I am cleaning the interior. What IS important is how durable the interior plastics are and Japanese cars (which tend to use harder plastics) are the ones that last.
Nothing better then a good hand j.., I mean manual operated roof Paul!🤭 The car looks good & I am sure would be shoot through the twisties! Nice "job" mate!🤣👍🏻
I cant believe how expensive the Mx5 is in most of the countries. I bought mine for US$ 16,000 in 2017 (2.0 Sport trim). I love it but theres no way id pay more for it...
"Does it qualify as a 100% men's car?" No, women are allowed to drive it too. "Is soft top less popular than a hard top?" No, the soft top is both more popular and faster due to the lower curb weight (108 lbs, ~5%).
Wow, such an easy review. I tried to watch others and they are a bit ovwrwhelming, this one is simple yet comprehensive. Most just talk about performance and barely look at gbe rest
Mum had an earlier one in the late 90s, probably a Eunos Roadster. Anyways, it was manual with a stiff gearbox but great fun on U turns. “Turn on a dime is correct.” Mum accidentally did a 360 in it.
oh my lord... the handbrake is between the gearstick and steeringswheel. on top of that the how do you even gear with your left hand. my mind is blown. BUT ON ANOTHER NOTE, would you reommend to buy new springs + spacers? to lower and reduce bodyroll?
Ha ha, I actually find it hard to do with my right hand! Yes - that will all help with handling! It's built for comfort in stock form, but fiddling with the suspension will keep it dead flat.
I really like the Porsche Boxster but I love the Miata! Why? Because it’s as much fun or more and it’s so affordable!!! The Boxster is twice or three times the price, depending on trim and engine choice. When you consider the maintenance, repair costs and insurance you have a truly expensive proposition. Meanwhile the Miata especially used without a warranties practically free in comparison! It’s an incredible bargain and more bang for your hard earned bucks.
Skip Ahead:
Intro: 00:00
Exterior: 01:05
Interior: 02:54
Infotainment: 04:09
Features: 04:51
Practicality: 05:43
On the Road: 07:11
Verdict: 11:06
Ll
Daughter who's 4'9"' tall found the base has NO HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT! So sale
@@Jesusprayerwarriorbw
It is weird to see how many cars have no hight adjustment especially cars that are more typical women cars are set for the standard 5,7" male and can't be changed.
@CarExpert Are you 6'1?
You're an MVP, doing this to your own video. Cheers from Canada, your first cousins in the north. I have the same opinion of this car, wish i loved it but alas.
Bought one two weeks ago. BIG shout out to its bluetooth system. When you're on a phone call, the call audio comes out from behind the driver's head making it incredibly easy to hear a conversation going 70mph with the top down on the highway. Each person I talked to couldn't believe I was driving a convertible down the highway because the microphone quality on this MX-5 was so awesome!
what aout the ground clearance...is it good for countries with big bumps??
@@robertmassive5335 absolutely not. you will cry every time.... and prob break ur ass too. im sorry :,(
Do you talk normal back to them or do you talk a little louder?
its good to see a review of someone who isnt a fan of it, gives another point of view.
Thanks, Dan! Definitely a fan now. It's a fun little car!
Picked up an rf last week, absolutely in love with it. The wind rushing throughout the cabin is the best thing ever since two wheels.
Great to hear! Enjoy the new wheels!
@jonathan quinn does it have a blind spot with the roof up?
@@postfaceliftsaxo3728 not really
@@postfaceliftsaxo3728 yes every review says so
Some of the smaller issues mentioned can be solved by purchasing a trim level above. The seats get an upgrade, sound system packs more punch as well and you get parking sensors. But basically it's good to see someone reviewing this car in a more "sane" version as the MX5 is all about thrills per buck. Usually reviewers get the biggest spec there is to review which might not be that entirely realistic with what buyers often are purchasing. Though I got to admit, I have a full option ND1.
Thanks! We thought we'd try the base model to see what it was like.
CarExpert I’m sorry but that is not an excuse, and the issue is more important than the op makes it out to be: it basically makes your review useless. You say things with certain authority which are clearly false, and pertain only to the trim level you are reviewing (the keyless entry bit being a case in point). It’s not at all good to see this review, as it paints a bad picture, making the review not only useless in that regard, but actually counterproductive. Thankfully, it can easily be fixed by putting some titles over the video to clarify the point.
😅 It’s a review of the base model. That’s the point of a review, so you know what you don’t get and so you can make an informed decision on what to buy.
CarExpert oh please. You don’t point out it’s the base model: you just pronounce inaccuracies as if they are truths. I’m not one of your fanboys, so i can see what happened. Unless fixed, this is nothing like an “honest” review. Ridiculous.
“Oh the key doesn’t work as a proximity sensor to enter the car...” uhm, except it does. Just your trim level doesn’t have the option. Entirely different!
I absolutely adore the look of this car, is so clean and fresh, yet still has an aggressive ninja look to it!
I'm biased, since I've owned my MX-5 since 1994. I bought it new, and drove it last night. I've driven every generation at least once, and the latest is by far the best. Handling, power delivery, interior quality have all been brought to the top of the scale with the newest car. At the same time, Mazda haven't abandoned the formula in pursuit of unnecessary creature comforts, larger size or huge amounts of power. It was a sublime design the day it came on the market in 1989, and it's only better in every way in the newest iteration. Driving my car back-to-back with the new one really reveals the progress, although I still am happy to own my car because it amounts to 85% of the new car -- and the core values are still intact. This bodes very well for the expected service longevity any owner of the new car can expect. Well done with the review!
Thanks! Will you consider upgrading or will you stick with the original formula?
@@CarExpertAus the only disagreement I had with you on your video was the roof. While I like the concept of the RF retractable roof, I've found the manual roof a no-brainer to use over all these years. It's literally a one-hand-at-the-stoplight deal, and I think the look of the car suffers a bit with all that extra tin and superstructure of the RF. As for upgrades, are you asking if I'd upgrade to the new car, over my 1993? Personally at this point, no, since I've done some mild mods to my '93 (Flyin' Miata suspension being the biggest one) and I've spent hundreds of hours just keeping the car clean and in top shape. The new car would be wonderful, but probably not enough of a step up from the '93 for me. But I'm also a bit attached emotionally -- it was the first thing my wife and I purchased together all those years ago, and we even drove it from our wedding reception. 26 years and five kids later, somehow we still own it, and it's better than ever! But if I didn't own the '93, I'd seriously consider a new MX-5 -- it's a completely better car in every regard. Maybe I need to own both, eh?
😅😅 it does sound like I’ve talked you into both!
Seriously, right? Wonderful cars. I don't think it's hyperbole to say they're among the most successful designs in history, all things considered. They just hit all the right notes, and smacked all their design goals out of the park. I still enjoy driving mine immensely.
Very true!
I drove the soft top and the hard top version and ended up buying the soft top. Hard top has very limited over the shoulder vision and as far as the non electric top function, it is about 3 seconds to fully open or close the top manually with ergonomically placed latches and handles that make it quite simple and convenient. He mentions the wait time and "don't try this at a traffic light" but I like that if it starts to rain, I can generally have the top up practically before the second raindrop hits. My 2021 replaces my VERY well driven 1999 and I couldn't be happier!
Paul and Igor and team, you guys are killing it! You're very quickly climbing to be one of the best and most enjoyable auto journalism sources in Australia. Keep it up!
Thanks, Adam! We both appreciate the comments!
I've lost count how many times I've watched this... Best video showing off this stunning color
I love the color of this
Miatas are one of my favorite cars and I’m so happy that you love it as well!
I have a 2017 MX5 RF GT with exclusive package. It is the most fun to drive. Exceptional manual gear box, very well balanced ride - amazing how such a light and sporty car can handle so well as well as not crash over bumps. Truly a masterpiece from the engineers at Mazda
Sure is!
I have a 2017 MX-5 RF GT too, Its fully loaded. Love it, thanks Mazda.
Great review Paul and team. I enjoyed a test drive in this very car (ECA 851) a couple of weeks ago. So impressed that I’ve offloaded my 550 hp HSV and ordered an RF GT. It might take a while to get here, but so be it. I totally get the MX 5 philosophy. What an engaging drive this thing really is. Anyone who still thinks these cars are underpowered really doesn’t understand why this car exists.
Exactly - This car solves problems that can't be solved by adding more horsepower.
"the mx-5 isn't my cup of tea"
You monster!
😅
Jonathan Fowler he contradictories
Had my RF GT two years and every drive is a pleasure. Other cars just look so lardy and overdone.
Glad you're enjoying it, Gary!
It's automatic or standard transmission?
@@israellmarttinezz9796 Mx-5 has to be a manual, never auto!
Gary Prince I have an auto Mx-5 :(
@@Kooshywooshy Hey, it's yours to enjoy and no one else's, right!
I have an NB1. The steering is a major plus, it is the best steering I have had in 56 years of driving. Your left elbow issue on turning left ? .... it is your steering technique, don't blame the internal design. I have no problem. Try the push/pull technique of steering ... it gives you much better control because your hands remain close to the horizontal instead of rotating around all over the place.
My guy is measuring the hardness of the dash and adding that to his interior review that's kinda weird lmao
😁 we do it for all our reviews just for a bit of fun!
CarExpert I thought it was cool until I realized it was completely pointless. Everyone knows what hard feels like and nobody has a reference to your scale.
yea in a way kinda pointless. we all know this car isn’t a bmw or mercedes, so just saying the material is not soft is enough lol.
@@rocketkinger2506 Not quite! Hard and soft are at two extreme ends of the scale. Before long we'll have a table that allows you to reference one car against another. It's a handy tool to have and it calls out cheap interiors.
Nothing worse than hard plastics in an interior. Keep doing your hard test don’t worry about the softies 😉
your channel deserves more attention. loved the review!
Thanks! Feel free to share our content so we get noticed 😁
Was waiting for this review. Love the Miata.
😁
The Mazda MX-5 range kicks off from AUD$35,890 (US$25,000) plus on-road costs for the entry-level MX-5 manual.
The range caps out at AUD$49,900 (US$33,500) plus on-roads for the top-specification MX-5 RF GT with an automatic gearbox.
This car on the other hand, the MX-5 RF kicks off from AUD$41,200 (US$28,300) plus on-roads and comes standard with a 2.0-litre engine and six-speed manual transmission.
Buyers can pick from six colours with all but Machine Grey and Soul Red costing an additional AUD$495 (US$340).
Do you have a Club version with Bilstein shocks? The base Miata handles like a wet noodle in my opinion.
I love my RF. Get the Smarttop mod to make roof raising/lowering one touch up to 15mph, and it's perfect.
Why are people so concerned with how "hard" the dash is? Not like you touch it while driving... I've touched my dash like 3 times in 8 years... lol
I'm more interested at the touch feeling of the steering wheel instead
Hi Paul - when you drive an MX5 is when you understand what it is all about. It is a great little car and provides one of the purest driving experiences available today. Caterham and Lotus would be the others in this league - however they are much more hard core and also they cost a lot more. If you dont want the compromises of the 'hard core' then the MX5 is the best 'all round' option that you can have as your daily drive as well as enjoy the purity of driving experience.
Very true!
U like the mx5, so u must be a good reviewer, subscribed.
Thanks mate!
I had so much anxiety because I’m not used to driving on the other side of the road
😅 we feel the same way in the opposite direction!
@@CarExpertAus yeah but thats the rest of the planet
1:54 *That little lip on the tire does virtually nothing to protect the (soft alloy) rims, my 2019 MX-5 has the battle scars to prove it.*
Miata in the US - comes with 3 variants, starts from $25,000
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Miata in my country - one variant, fixed price $60,000
Wow that's crazy expensive! Which country are you in?
@@CarExpertAus Malaysia. The 2020 mx5 is priced at RM 260,000, which is roughly 60,000 USD. Insane 200-300% taxes apply to all import cars. Really a sad country to live in for a car enthusiast.
same in hong kong. 64K USD. damn it!!!
@@CarExpertAus same in hong kong. 64K USD. damn it!
Is that including "sales tax" though? They are about £24k+ in the UK and that includes VAT. You can usually haggle them down a bit too.
As we drive on the left they are a straight import from Japan though, which probably keeps costs down.
Every car guy needs to own an MX-5 at some point.
Ordered one a week ago. Can’t wait to get it!!
I picked up a soft top Club model (not sure if the models in Australia match up with the ones here in the U.S.), and I'm loving it. Such a great driving car, and I'm really enjoying the whole top-down experience (this is my first convertible).
We don’t have that model but wish we did! It sounds pretty awesome 😁
You deserve more subs more views more everything basically love your reviews 👌
Thanks mate!
There is also storage (quite sizeable) behind each seat.
You’re right! We should be called that out.
I thought that feature was lost on the hard top, only available on the soft-top?
@@waynesimpson2074 You're half right... it's driver side only on the RF... or maybe passenger side only... but I do 100% know it's there on one side only.
Only one the passenger side for the RF! And I always forget it's there
I test drove the 1.5 and ordered the 2.0 immediately 😁. such a fun car !
Ive had my RF GT for just over 3 years now and its a great car.
Personally would love a bit more power between the first and second gears but otherwise its super fun to drive.
My reverse camera is better than most cars i see at this price range so not sure why you didn't like it so much.
Otherwise great review and video.
Look forward to seeing more
Thanks! The issue I had with the camera was when reversing at night time. The non-GT model doesn't have parking sensors, so it made it a bit tricky to park if you couldn't see through it.
2019 and up get the extra power.
Try getting a higher final drive
Whis channel is seriously underrated
Finally, a review of the 2020 mazda mx-5 from an Aussie car jounalist. So happy!! Subscribed!
Thanks mate! Appreciate it 😁
You guys are growing! Keep those videos coming.
Thank you! Will do!
have a red GT-S RF, its definitely the way to go, stiffer suspension, all the frills, black roof looks great against the red.
ខ្ញុំចូលចិត្តអ្នកបង្ហាញបានល្អណាស់
You're the best reviewer
From Cambodia
Best detailed car reviews with good quality video and angles♥️.... By 2022 you'll be 4M subscribers trust me.
Manually opening or closing the roof is so much better. Not only it is a lot faster, but you can operate the manual roof even when driving 50km/h.
That’s true!
It does look like fun. That windy road looks like it was made for that car
Agreed!
This car answers it's brief brilliantly!!
Love your review. Unbiased and unfiltered. This is my dream car ;)
oh finally my mate is reviewing. good on ya mate.
Very good review. I like the overall style and will consider looking for CarExpert reviews in the future.
Great review. Thankyou.
I have short listed the MX5 2.0.
Great instragram integration, love it 👍
Thanks!
A nice balanced review. I was surprised at how small that boot was compared with my old CLK 280 Benz.
Just found your channel guys, good job and nice content....hope you making more interesting reviews and bring us more scent of new models. Greetings from Greece!
Welcome aboard! Feel free to browse through the rest of our videos :-D
1:37 You want more roll in the rain, not less.
he giggled when he said "hand...job"
Close mate had the NB MX-5, and I get it. Also good to see you feeling Mazda's "Jinba Ittai" in the steering, and very glad to hear that the manual is still excellent. He'd skipped the NC, and when the ND was launched, umm'd and aah'd between it and the Fiat 124 Spider. Issue being that the ND launched with just the smaller engine, and you had to go with the Italian to get the extra power - the lack of power being an issue you also mentioned.
I'd go the soft-top (for less weight), in red with tan leather, with the 2.0L petrol engine thanks.
Nice work on the sly joke with the roof too Paul.
😁 I drove the Fiat 124 once. It was great fun and sounded really cool - but I think I’d still go the 2.0 litre MX-5 over it.
@@CarExpertAus Unless you get the Abarth, which is in another league :P
Get an old Lotus Elise instead. I did, no regrets. The performance is in an entirely different league :D
I like an honest review 😊
R u sure it's not noisy inside? Is there a big difference from the soft top? I've driven that one and it's really loud starting from 90kmph...
My NC PRHT model looks like the Lotus Elan ought to have looked, and when I put the roof down it looks just like a sports car should, NO roof, but I don't have the inconvenience of the soft-top. I also have full leather seats, BOSE sound, and a GLOVEBOX!
Nice!
I agree but I will add also more passenger leg room, larger trunk and no direct injection so no carbon intake problems.
As a "car" the NC hard top is the best of the lot, as a Miata...... well not so much. The NC is the one I would get as an auto for committing in heavy rush hour traffic. I am not a fan of the targa top Miatas as you do not get the top down visibility. They are NOT LONGER A CONVERTIBLE.
Wow, reknow the mx5. This beauty is within my radar range now. Well down Paul.
Switched out of Saab cabriolets after 20 years and went to buy an MX-5. Unfortunately I took my wife car shopping with me and we ended up with the wrong 5 - a CX-5. Now I just have to wait until the 3-5 years is up and I’m straight back to get my convertible fix. Problem is I cant find a dealer with a demo!!
Good review. Was it just me that had to google LSD to find it was a limited slip diff?
Thanks for the review! Gonna put my 2010 hardtop to used car land soon.
love this car.... Awesome review as usual.... Hope it comes to India !
Thank you!
What a review mate, loved it!
Underated needs more subs
Thanks mate!
No prob but is true :v
Nice video, you might want to revisit the current 2021 model, it could solve a lot of your criticisms about it lacking standard features in the car your drove...now has Bose speakers in the headrests, parking sensors and more.
Hey man, i like your trousers and color choice. 🤙🏻
Good blue colour, matches the mazda paint color too
Great review video. Probably the only one who show the video timelines lol 😂
Another great review
Thanks, mate!
I did a test drive today and I'm 1m87, I barely use two hands on the steering wheel while driving so turning didn't annoy me at all but indeed the center console could be just a tad bit lower. I think I have about 4 cm distance from the roof so it did feel a bit claustrophobic. I just did a 30 min test drive with the dealer sitting next to me, think I need to try it alone for a full hour to see if I'm really sold on it or not.
Thanks for the feedback - you should take it out on your own for a test drive :-D
What can you do about the body roll? Lower it .5?
I think your front cup holder mount must be damaged, it should lock in without any wobble, as tight as the elbow mounts.
Thanks for that feedback. 😁
Soft dashboard tops are more likely to disintegrate over time due to the heat they have to bear. You may not remember but I remember the cars of the 1970s. Sure materials are better, but sun beats dash top, always. A hard surface may well be much more durable.
22 year old NB disagrees.
In my opinion the most suitable trackday car is an mx-5, if you are wondering let me explain. When all other cars rely on engine power, the mx-5 only relies on its road holding
Well done Paul another great great Video. I like cars with the diff. In the rear it does look 👀 good, it looks like a Toyota 86 . 5 years warranty & the RF anytime for me . Mazda have a very good engine.
My son got an old model ( m.X 5 ) he loves 🤍it a soft top 🤍 white in great condition. 🏁.
It’s a great little car!
Great review guys 👍🏻
Thanks!!
Love your work Paul!
Manually opening and closing the soft top takes about 4-5 seconds. Quicker than a automated system and saves weight
I have a MY2017 one for 2.5 years now, got a decent leasing rate at the time from Mazda so basically a new car at the time which sat in stock for a while. It's the 1.5L version in GT-M spec, which is adequate enough for the flat country I live in (Netherlands). I'm 1.92m and just fits, however if you're a very large person or someone with very long legs it'll be challenging. Due to it being a lease I really can't fiddle a lot with it, and I agree with the bodyroll - if it were my own I'd address it by adjusting dampers / springs. Other annoyings things are fixed by model year updates (steering wheel only adjusts vertical in mine, and the doors hinge 2 times instead of 3 now). I still got PDC at the rear instead of a camera but that is totally fine. BOSE audio system is fun with the speakers in the headrests, a nice gimmick. The hard thing will be to find a car that gives as much driving pleasure for the same price, there is really not much that comes close. Where I live cars like the Renault Megane RS or VW Golf GTI are a lot more expensive, and smaller cars like a Polo GTI or a Mini Cooper don't come close to the very good seating position you find in the Miata. If anyone has a suggestion I'd love to know :P
I'm considering one. Whereas I do prefer the manual operation of the roof (It's a lot more engaging and quicker), I'd probably buy the RF as it'll be parked outside and used in winter, neither are things that soft tops really like.
Good point! The roof is quick enough as well, so it's not a huge delay.
I’ve had the first generation, 2 of the 3rd generation and I have the 4th generation. The MX5 is my jam!! I am not a fan of the RF but if I lived up north I would consider the RF. The reason why I love the MX5 soft top for the experience of nothing there to block my view. In my opinion the RF is not a true convertible.
Glad you’re enjoying the MX-5 so much!!
CarExpert thank you for the tour!
RF indeed blocks you view, detracts from the "open air" immersion, adds complexity/weight/cost. They are not as quiet as the soft top with the roof down (turbulence). Security may be the only reason to buy the RF, if you park on the street overnight. A lot of "mature" people own MX-5's, and they may not have the manual dexterity required to raise/lower the soft top (from a seated position). Fun, comfortable and sporty car in which EVERY drive feels special.
Hence the term, "retractable fastback." =) It's like the T-Tops on a Trans Am or the removable (but somewhat clumsy) top on a 914 Porsche. Anyhoo, I LOVE the shape of the RF, mine is a daily driver in the southern US so the "top" is up most muggy afternoons. Cheers!
@@ElroyMcDuff I still think the NC hard top is the way to go if you need the hard top. Anyone can drop the top from the seated position, the worse is you have to pull over to put the top up.
Thanks pal....good one!
Love how you just flick that antenna LOL. Why do they have an antenna design from over 10 years ago. I am ok with the design in general except I think the spacing of the tail lights could have been wider and push it out a bit more cause the current looks is disproportionate. Also had Mazda also offer a higher powered engine it would certainly have been a little pocket rocket.
😅 I’d say it’s just a platform thing. The in glass antennas wouldn’t work on the soft top so it’s easier to just use the one aerial design for both variants.
@Ryuichi Tanaka Yes, but this is why Euro cars are always just that slightly more desirable because they will always make a more power variant of an already good platform, you get the choice.
Almost everyone replaces the antenna with a stubby version. They cost about US$20 and are a screw in replacement that takes about 30 seconds to change.. Maybe the OEM one is better if you live in the middle of nowhere.
Wider wheels and tires. Rear diffuser, blacked out roof with a carbon skin wrap, suspension KW coil over. 2019 RF
…and don't forget to add tail fins, lake pipes, and a necker knob on the steering wheel!
Excellent review
I don't get the obsession journalists have with how soft dashboard plastics are. Who touches the dashboard? in over thirty years of driving the only time I can recall touching the dashboard is when I am cleaning the interior. What IS important is how durable the interior plastics are and Japanese cars (which tend to use harder plastics) are the ones that last.
Soft materials help soak up road-noise. The harder the materials, the more likely they are to vibrate/rattle when driving.
Great review as always.
Thank you!!
a lot of the things you state you 'don't get' are actually optiuonal extras including the auto-dimming rear view mirror and parking sensors
Nothing better then a good hand j.., I mean manual operated roof Paul!🤭 The car looks good & I am sure would be shoot through the twisties! Nice "job" mate!🤣👍🏻
The black car does blend in on the interior door paint. But its shiny surface contrasts the other interior components.
Thanks for that, Nathan!
I love my Miata MX5-RF Touring. Unfortunately I’ve only had a chance to put 600 miles since February, because of Covid 19.
I cant believe how expensive the Mx5 is in most of the countries. I bought mine for US$ 16,000 in 2017 (2.0 Sport trim). I love it but theres no way id pay more for it...
Practical and cheap compared to a base Porsche Boxster and as much fun or more and 100% less stress in parking lots and daily commuting.
Didn't think the base RF had a LSD. Thought that was the GT only. Also, parking sensors can be added as an option.
Good stuff! Does it qualify as a 100% men's car? Is soft top less popular than a hard top? Thanks!
"Does it qualify as a 100% men's car?" No, women are allowed to drive it too.
"Is soft top less popular than a hard top?" No, the soft top is both more popular and faster due to the lower curb weight (108 lbs, ~5%).
Wow, such an easy review. I tried to watch others and they are a bit ovwrwhelming, this one is simple yet comprehensive. Most just talk about performance and barely look at gbe rest
Mum had an earlier one in the late 90s, probably a Eunos Roadster. Anyways, it was manual with a stiff gearbox but great fun on U turns. “Turn on a dime is correct.” Mum accidentally did a 360 in it.
Base model ? Is it worth it than next level model ?
Add in 3.5 litre engine
225 mm front tyres
275 mm rear tyres
Sport suspension
Sold.
🤯
Is this car only sold with a manual transmission or is it possible that it can be an automatic?
oh my lord... the handbrake is between the gearstick and steeringswheel. on top of that the how do you even gear with your left hand. my mind is blown. BUT ON ANOTHER NOTE, would you reommend to buy new springs + spacers? to lower and reduce bodyroll?
Ha ha, I actually find it hard to do with my right hand! Yes - that will all help with handling! It's built for comfort in stock form, but fiddling with the suspension will keep it dead flat.
@@CarExpertAus thanks
Simple car and so cool 👍👍🤘🤘
I really like the Porsche Boxster but I love the Miata! Why? Because it’s as much fun or more and it’s so affordable!!! The Boxster is twice or three times the price, depending on trim and engine choice. When you consider the maintenance, repair costs and insurance you have a truly expensive proposition. Meanwhile the Miata especially used without a warranties practically free in comparison! It’s an incredible bargain and more bang for your hard earned bucks.